Press Conference on Tanzania Food Systems Partner Dialogue Highlights Youth Engagement in Agricultural Growth

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania—At a key meeting held on July 11th, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Hussein Bashe (MP), emphasized the importance of youth involvement in driving the growth of Tanzania’s agricultural sector.

The meeting, held at the Serena Hotel, was attended by various leaders, including former Ethiopian Prime Minister, Hon. Hailemariam Desalegn, who is the Board Chair of AGRA; the East Africa Regional Director of IFAD, Ms. Sara Mbago-Bhuno; the Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources, and Livestock of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, Hon. Shamata Shaame Khamis (MP); and the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries (Fisheries), Dr. Edwin Paul Mhede.

During the interviews, various issues were discussed, including the Agenda 10/30 vision document launch, which aims to stimulate investment to bring about transformative changes in promoting productive agriculture in Tanzania. The document’s strategy also aims to set ambitious economic growth targets for the next decade, including accelerating agricultural growth to reach 10% by 2030.

The Tanzania Food Systems Partner Dialogue brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, agricultural experts, development partners, and representatives from civil society organizations. This event served as a platform to discuss key issues related to food systems, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to ensure sustainable and inclusive agricultural development in Tanzania.

Minister Bashe’s statement on the importance of youth participation aligns with the growing recognition of the demographic dividend that Tanzania possesses. By investing in youth and providing them with the tools and opportunities to succeed in agriculture, the country can unlock its agricultural potential, enhance food security, and create a more prosperous future for all.